“I’d like to buy the world a round. In a honky tonk on neutral ground. Where we can see inside we’re all the same.”

These words were sung by Hank Williams Jr. in his 2004 song “Why Can’t We All Just Get A Long Neck?” The hit later goes on to feature the lyrics “As different as we might be, we’re all one big family …”

The song was a commentary on how fractured and different the world had become in the years following the 9/11 attacks. Instead of being part of the problem and causing an uproar, Williams used his voice to call for unity and peace.

“Bocephus” has long been in the spotlight of controversy and is regularly heard offering his two cents. Thanks in part to this brashness, many listeners forget the hard-working, every-man shown in his songs.  

During his recent interview on “Fox and Friends,” the music legend’s comments overstepped a perceived political correctness boundary. His statement was widely misinterpreted, with many viewers believing the singer had called President Barack Obama a modern-day Hitler. Despite his best intentions to clarify, he has been chastized in a prime example of pulling comments out of context and people being to sensitive to political correctness.

Williams publically stated he was calling Obama, and his golf partner for the day Rep. John Boehner, the “enemy.” This was simply in reference to their political actions and shortcomings in Washington, not race, religion or creed. His patriotism has always shown through, and he is sympathetic to the plight of our nation the suits in Washington, D.C. seemingly ignore.

Williams has made no secret about his love for his roots and the South. He has been known to display the Confederate flag and colors; much like other Dixie natives, he does it as a sign of pride in his heritage, not as a means of promoting racism.

Much of the criticism is coming forth in relation to his conservative political leanings. Boehner is a fellow Republican, yet Williams still referred to him as the enemy. Surprisingly, “The View” hosts Whoopi Goldberg and Joy Behar stood behind Williams and defended his right to free speech. 

Conversely, Sarah Palin and others in the conservative camp have overcompensated in their defense of Williams, blaming everything on the “liberal media.” The blame should not go to any political party, but rather our society as a whole.

Too often when someone has a strong opinion, they are ridiculed and censored by our overly sensitive culture. The lines of political correctness are ever expanding and every opinion made seemingly receives unabashed criticism.

ESPN joined in this overbearing sensitivity by parting ways with a man who is as synonymous with “Monday Night Football” as any player, team or coach. Fans did not fall in love with the introduction because of Williams’ polticial beliefs or values.

There is no doubt that comparing anyone to Hitler in any fashion is an extreme accusation, but Hank Williams Jr. did so to make a point and call out our political leaders. Instead of disparaging the music icon for his comments, revere him for taking a stance for the freedom of speech our nation so fervently celebrates.